We Happy Few (2018)

by Christopher April 27, 2018

written by Christopher April 27, 2018 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2018
Genres: Adventure, Indie, Shooter
Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Developers: Compulsion Games
Publishers: Gearbox Publishing

We Happy Few: A Dystopian Adventure with a Darkly Funny Twist

Introduction

We Happy Few is a first-person action-adventure game developed by Compulsion Games and published by Gearbox Publishing. It was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One in August 2018. The game is set in a retrofuturistic version of England in the 1960s, where the populace is forced to take a drug called Joy to suppress their memories of a traumatic past event.

Gameplay

Players control one of three characters: Arthur Hastings, Sally Boyle, or Ollie Starkey. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyles. Arthur is a former journalist who is immune to the effects of Joy, making him an ideal choice for stealth missions. Sally is a pyromaniac who can use fire to her advantage in combat. Ollie is a former soldier who is proficient in melee combat.

The game’s world is divided into several districts, each with its own unique atmosphere and inhabitants. Players must explore these districts, complete quests, and avoid detection by the authorities. The game features a variety of gameplay mechanics, including stealth, combat, and puzzle-solving.

Setting

We Happy Few is set in a retrofuturistic version of England in the 1960s. The game’s world is a strange and unsettling place, where the populace is forced to take a drug called Joy to suppress their memories of a traumatic past event. Those who refuse to take Joy are branded as “Downers” and are treated with extreme prejudice.

The game’s setting is inspired by a variety of sources, including the works of George Orwell, Aldous Huxley, and Ray Bradbury. The game’s developers have also cited the films Brazil and A Clockwork Orange as influences.

Characters

We Happy Few features a cast of memorable and complex characters. The game’s three playable characters are all flawed and damaged individuals, but they are also capable of great courage and compassion.

Arthur Hastings is a former journalist who is immune to the effects of Joy. He is determined to uncover the truth about the past and expose the government’s lies.
Sally Boyle is a pyromaniac who is struggling to come to terms with her past. She is a fierce and independent woman, but she is also haunted by her demons.
Ollie Starkey is a former soldier who is trying to find his place in the world. He is a skilled fighter, but he is also struggling with PTSD.

Themes

We Happy Few explores a number of dark and disturbing themes, including the dangers of totalitarianism, the importance of memory, and the nature of happiness. The game’s setting is a metaphor for the dangers of suppressing the past and the importance of facing our demons.

Reception

We Happy Few received mixed reviews from critics upon release. Some praised the game’s unique setting, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Others criticized the game’s repetitive gameplay and technical issues.

Despite the mixed reviews, We Happy Few has been a commercial success. The game has sold over 1 million copies worldwide.

Conclusion

We Happy Few is a unique and thought-provoking game that explores some dark and disturbing themes. The game’s setting is a metaphor for the dangers of suppressing the past and the importance of facing our demons. We Happy Few is a must-play for fans of dystopian fiction and action-adventure games.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.